Remember Road Safety This Long Weekend

The May long weekend typically sees an increase in travellers on the road and unfortunately, an increase in the number of people driving impaired.

The government is asking drivers to be especially alert and, in partnership with law enforcement, for people to report suspected impaired drivers by calling 911.

"This is a beautiful time of year in our province and I know many Nova Scotians will be hitting the road this long weekend to take advantage of it," said Geoff MacLellan, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. "If you're planning a road trip, please put down your hand-held device, wear your seatbelt, watch your speed and, I wish this could go without saying, never drink or take drugs and drive."

The leading causes of fatal collisions are:

• driver inattention and distraction
• not wearing a seatbelt
• speeding and aggressive driving
• impaired driving

"As the first long weekend going into summer, traffic volumes increase across the province so we often see an increase in collisions on our roadways," said Insp. Bernardine Chapman, officer in charge of RCMP Traffic Services. "In Nova Scotia, distracted driving is the leading cause of fatal and serious injury collisions, followed closely by impaired driving.

"Both can have tragic consequences leaving a lasting impact on many individuals and families in our communities."

In 2014, 54 people died in collisions on provincial highways.

"RCMP officers will be out conducting extra enforcement throughout the weekend with a focus on the four leading causes of fatal and serious collisions," said Insp. Chapman. "We want to remind motorists that road safety is everyone's responsibility. If you see someone you think is impaired, don't hesitate to call 911."

"Driving with your mind completely focused on the task of driving is perhaps the most loving thing you can do for family, friends and other Nova Scotians you encounter this long weekend," said Shirley Burdock, community co-chair of the provincial Road Safety Advisory Committee.

Follow the department on Twitter @ns_tir for the latest highway updates and information.